Made in Germany

Right off the bat, it does need to be pointed out that this bike lock is genuinely made in Germany. Many companies have started to send their designs overseas and have them made at a cheaper price point.

This may seem good for the customer but, more often than not, you end up with some shoddy product that barely protects you. That is not the case with the Granit X-Plus, or any Abus bike lock for that matter. They are all built 100% in Germany. No outsourcing.

Abus still make these, and they have quite a reputation to live up to. You know that it is going to be good. Obviously, this is an Abus lock, so while you can expect it to be a little bit more expensive than other locks on the market, it is going to last.

Buy this, and you are almost certainly guaranteed to have a lock which is going to provide you with years and years of use. Cheaper locks? Nope. You may end up buying a new one every year or so, which is dreadfully annoying.

Keying System

With some of the cheaper bike locks from Abus, at least in the past, there were only a few different key types for the lock. This means that if somebody ended up with the same key as your lock, then they would be able to open it.

It was rare, and tended to happen more among the cheaper manufacturers and was not an Abus only issue, but it did happen. That is not going to be the case with the Granit X-Plus.

Inside the packet for the U Lock, you will have a key code. This key code applies specifically to your lock. You will need this code if you need an extra key, so keep hold of it.

You will only ever be able to order that key directly from Abus. This means that nobody is going to have access to your lock at all. There will be no matching key other than your one. This adds extra protection.

You have two keys included with the Abus Granit X-Plus, with one of them including an LED light which makes it easy to unlock your bike when you stumble home late at night (or if you work extra hours, of course!)

Shackle Size

At first glance, the shackle size of the Abus comes in quite low. It is just 13mm thick. With a cheaper bike lock, this is something which could be cut through like it is butter.

It would take seconds. Most people think that the same would happen with the Granit X-Plus but, once again, this is not going to be an issue.

Abus have patented ‘shackle technology’. The steel that makes up the shackle is a heavily tempered German steel. It is nigh on impossible to cut through. It is also ‘square’ shaped, which makes it even more difficult to get through with a pair of bolt cutters.

According to Abus, the shackle is able to put up with a whopping 13 tons of force. You could get the strongest man in the world to try and chomp down on the bike lock with a pair of bolt cutters, and they still would not be able to get through. It is tough to pull it off too.

The shackle has been pre-stretched, which means that it can deal with 17 tons of pull force. Nobody is going to be able to pull that off (literally!)

There is no telling whether a good angle grinder can get through the bike lock or not but, let’s be honest, the majority of people out there are not going to be carrying around angle grinders as standard.

They want something that is going to be easy to get through so that they can hop away with the bike. They want no resistance. The Granit X-Plus is going to provide way more resistance than it is worth.

That being said, there is no bike lock on the market (and this includes the highest security locks) which are going to protect your bike from an assault by a power tool. If you live in a high crime area where this is going to be an issue, then you are probably not going to want to leave your bike on the streets in the first place.

So, once again, this is not something which is going to be a major issue for you.

If the thief is somehow able to get through the bike lock with an angle grinder, they will need to make two cuts since it is a double bolted shackle. Basically, this lock is never going to come off unless you have the key.

Dust Cover

The dust cover is designed to protect your key hole against the elements. As with all Abus locks, it seems to be robustly built, and it clicks into place well.

Of course, you should never really be leaving your bicycle outside exposed to the elements for long periods of time, but it seems as if this lock is able to put up with quite a battering so it is not going to be that much of an issue.

There have been some ‘tests’ on the dust cover to show how robust it is. It would take a couple of serious blows with a hammer to get the plastic casing surrounding the lock mechanism to fall off.

And, even then, it is going to click right back into place. Don’t worry about somebody chopping off this cover and having access to the inner workings of your lock, though. There is robust steel behind the plastic covering.

The dust cover is automatic, so you do not need to worry about ensuring that you close it, a common problem that many people have with some of the cheaper locks.

Weight

The Abus Granit X-Plus weighs in at 3.20lb (1.45kg) which, honestly, is quite light. Yes, there are a lot of bike locks on the market that are lighter than this.

However, you should remember that most of them are not high-security locks. This is a high security lock. It is one of the lightest high security locks out there.

Granted, if you are going to be carrying around this amount of weight all day, it is going to get annoying. Thankfully, you can pick up a quality frame from Abus.

In fact, some of the models of the the Granit X-Plus are supplied with the frame, and it is a pretty decent frame at that. There are a couple on the market, so have a browse through and see which one is better for you.

It is worth pointing out that the Abus Granit X-Plus is not the most secure bike lock on the market. When you want something which is incredibly secure, then you are going to be sacrificing portability for it.

The Abus Granit X-Plus, however, is well up there with being one of the most secure portable bike locks on the market.

Nobody is even going to bother trying to cut through this because they know just how feature-rich Abus bike locks are.

Simplicity

This is a very standard U Lock. It is not crazy in terms of its sizing. It is 9” long (23cm) and 4.25” (10.8cm) wide.

It may be a bit wider than most other U Locks on the market, but not so wide that you are going to open a whole wealth of new areas where you can lock your bike up. You should be able to get it in most places, though.

The one place where you may struggle to use the basic Granit X-Plus lock will be against lamp posts. It is going to fit in most cases, but it is going to be an incredibly tight fit.

There are some people who may hook up two bicycles together. You are not going to be able to do that with the basic Granit X-Plus.

If you are going to hook up two bicycles, then pick up the X Plus 540, which has a slightly longer shackle. It will allow you to protect two bicycles at once.

Conclusion

If you want a quality bike lock that is portable, then you are going to struggle to find something better than the Abus Granit X-Plus bike lock. Sure, it does come with a hefty price tag, but you are really paying for quality here. You pick up this lock, and you are going to be 100% satisfied with it, not just now, but for many, many years to come.

NB! The New York lock is often out of stock on Amazon, due to very high demand.

Security95%

Weight75%

Value for Money85%

This lock from Kryptonite is what I use myself. As a matter of fact, I personally have 2 of these, one for the front and one for the back part of my bike. However, if you don’t live in Amsterdam, one lock should do just fine.

It costs around $85, but it will save you the trouble of having to buy a new lock in the near future. Where as if you vouch for cheaper options you might be shopping for a new lock sooner than expected (that’s what happened to me).

Most Secure Bike Lock

#1 Abus Granit X-PLUS

It’s the strongest lock on the market

The hardest one to crack

The lightest high-security lock at 1.4kg/3lbs

Numerous security test wins

No warranty, unlike Kryptonite's locks

Pricey at roughly $130

The lock has been rewarded as the most secure lock by a number of industry leading test organisations in 2016-2018.

If you’re looking to secure your bike with the safest lock there is, this is the one that you should pick. Yea it costs quite a bit, but if you’re looking for the highest amount of security, then Abus Granit X-plus is your go-to lock.

You can find one of the most thorough and professional lock cracking tests ever completed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxIbAFnmsIQ – They found ABUS’s Granit X to be the most secure lock after destroying £11,000 worth of locks.

TiGr mini looks totally different from all other bike locks in the market. It is made of titanium contrary to most other locks. That doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s stronger, but the little lock sure is strong given it’s weight and built.

I personally really like the looks of the lock. It looks really great on minimalistic looking fixie bikes or older style retro bikes.

Abus Bordo Granit is the heavyweight champion of folding bike locks. It’s the toughest one in the market. If you’re shopping for a folding lock, I’d recommend this one above all others.

Folding locks are a great pick, they are more compact than most other locks and easily mountable to your bike. However, these locks are inherently easier to crack than the U-shaped locks. With the Abus Granit the security difference is brought down to a minimum.

The problem with chain locks is that the heavier they are, the more security they offer. You can choose an even stronger lock, but it will cost you a few extra kilos/pounds and I wouldn’t want to carry that much weight around every day.

If you are able to use the chains as a stationary lock, then choose the one with the biggest chain diameter (and weight).

If you’re shopping for a cheaper priced lock, then the Via Velo lock is currently the best option on the market.

Yes, it doesn’t have the same level of security as more expensive locks, but if your living in a safer neighbourhood where bikes don’t get stolen that often, and/or your bike isn’t that expensive, then this is a definitely an option that I would go for.

Best Bike Lock Under $50

#1 Kryptonite -
Evolution Series-4

A high end lock, currently for sale! The full price of this lock is $80+.

If you want to avoid having your bike stolen, or if you’ve ever had your bike stolen, you’re all too familiar with the importance of owning a proper bike lock. I’ve personally lost a number of bikes and mainly due to using cheap locks.

Using a cheap lock to protect your bike will end up costing you your bike and the money that you’ve spent on the shitty lock you’re using. For under $100 you can buy a lock that you can safely use to leave your bike anywhere without having to worry about the safety of your bike.

Even in the unlikely event that your bike is stolen, Kryptonite offers a complementary warranty and they will reimburse the cost of your bike of up to $4,000. T&C apply and you need to register for this, so make sure to do it.

So Why Should You Pick the Kryptonite New York Lock??

Kryptonite has over 45-years of experience in the industry. This alone sets the company apart from competitors and ensures quality protection for your bike.

They’ve had plenty of time to come up with the best solution available to make sure that your bike stays secure.

Kryptonite relies on a ten-point protection rating system. This proprietary system rates one as a lower level, lower security system.

On the higher end, the ten provides bike owners peace of mind in knowing their bike is protected by the best locking mechanism and is fully backed by the company’s warranty and protection guarantee.

Security Rating

As mentioned earlier, Kryptonite has a system for grading locks based on their level of security. Below you’ll find a chart for their recommended uses for locks with different levels of security.

The New York Lock is rated as a 9, which means that it is one of the safest locks there is. If you are looking for even more security, you would have to choose an alteration of the New York lock, which looks similar, but is much heavier and thus offers a bit more security.

That lock is called the Fahgettaboudit lock. It’s also a bit pricier and as I said, it weighs more. The original version (the simple new york lock) is better value for money in my opinion.

What sets Kryptonite apart from competitors?

Some of the factors include:

– Leading industry innovation and expert guidance in designing bike locks
– Individual bike locks built for different bikes, motorcycles, and vehicles, ensuring the highest levels of protection
– Flexible fit and design, for individual bikes, and durability with keys that don’t break, offering the highest levels of protection-It’s good enough to protect motorcycles, so you can be sure that it’ll do a great job protecting your bicycle.

Kryptonite is a company which stands behind the quality and design of their bike locks. With innovative design, and continual design changes, the company has become a leader in designing locks which are built to last. Rugged materials, durability, and tensile-strength keep your bike protected, no matter where you park it overnight.

The Importance of Choosing a Well-Made Bike Lock

Any bike owner knows the importance of owning a well-made bike lock. If a lock is flimsy, a potential burglar is instantly going to target the bike. If they notice the bike isn’t properly locked, or the latch-system isn’t sturdy, this is an invitation for thieves to steal your bike.

A well-made bike lock not only protects the bike’s overall structure (the seat, frame, tires, etc.) but also the integral parts of your bike as well. It will provide protection for the handlebars and other attachments on the bike. A well-made bike lock has integrated features which are specific to your bike (style and brand), while offering the highest integral stability and protection.

Quality bike locks have simple design elements. One-lock solution systems, keys that don’t break/damage easily, and tamperproof designs, so thieves can’t crack in. These are a few of the many great components a Kryptonite bike lock affords its owners.

With a no-frills design, the right bike lock not only appears sturdy but is extremely durable and will afford bike owners the highest levels of security.

Kryptonite Bike Lock Theft Warranty:

Your Bike’s Protection is Backed by a Manufacturer Warranty
Just imagine paying the highest price for a new bike lock, only for it to be broken into, and your bike to be stolen. Although Kryptonite stands behind the quality and construction of its locks, it affords customers greater protections than its word. The company offers customers a lock theft warranty on all bike locks it sells.
The anti-theft protection offer (ATPO) is basically Kryptonite’s guarantee to its customers. The ATPO was created by the company in 1978. It’s a warranty which backs some of the bike locks which are sold by the company.

ATPO protects customers and reimburses them the monetary value of the stolen bike or motorcycle, if the theft occurred because the lock was broken or tampered by force. So, as long as owners can prove the faulty lock, or damage to the Kryptonite lock is what led to the theft of their bike or motorcycle, the company will reimburse them for the full purchase price of their bike.

If the lock was opened by force, customers are protected. The base cost of the bike or motorcycle and any insurance deductibles are covered by Kryptonite. Not many companies stand behind their products 100 percent.

This guarantee, in and of itself, is a reason why customers should rely on the highly-trusted manufacturer for bike locks. The company knows the quality of its locking mechanisms, and how structurally sound they are, that it is willing to put its name/reputation on the line.

Pros of the Kryptonite Bike Lock

Of course, you shouldn’t purchase a bike lock simply because a company claims to be the best or stand behind its products. Nor should you rely on the company’s website alone, informing you how great their product lineup is. Instead, customer reviews, ratings, and online sites, are great resources which help you decide which bike lock is right for you.

Some of the great features and design elements which set Kryptonite apart from competitor’s products include:

– The 100 percent money back ATPO guarantee
– Quality construction, frames, and tamperproof locking mechanisms
– The company sells locks specifically for different riding vehicles (bikes, motorcycle, ATV, boats, etc.)
– The company has a long-standing history and reputation, with over 40-years in the industry
– The proprietary security rating (one to ten) helps customers choose the most secure locks for their bikes

Kryptonite not only guarantees the product quality of their bike locks, but also has several locks for different types of bikes and motorcycles. So, you aren’t stuck choosing from one lock, and hoping for the best. The sheer volume of selection available on the site, guarantees customers are going to find a great bike lock which will not only protect their bike, but also ward off potential thieves from wanting to come near the bike in the first place.

Cons of the Kryptonite Bike Lock

Before choosing a bike lock, customers should weigh the pros and cons of different products. Some of the negatives, or drawbacks which should be noted in regard to Kryptonite bike locks include:
– The ATPO only covers certain bike locks, not all locks are backed by the warranty, however the New York Bike Lock is covered!
– Their locks are expensive in comparison to other lock manufacturers in the industry.
– The Kryptonite New York Bike lock’s design is a little large/bulky for certain bikes, limiting uses and protection.

The Kryptonite New York, and all locks in the family, are specifically geared towards protecting a certain type of bike. Additionally, they are quite expensive in a competitive market. So, you should consider competitor products, and compare their ratings/reviews, to help you best determine which bike lock is appropriate to secure your bike and avoid theft.

About the New York Lock

With many specific locks available from Kryptonite, the New York lock is one of the top-selling models. It has a security rating of nine out of ten. The ATPO protection also protects bikes valued at up to $4,000.

The 16 mm, max performance steel shackle is hard to crack, or even mobilize, once it is latched onto a bike for protection. The double-deadbolt system ensures that even if a thief tries to break in and steal a bike, they’re going to encounter a second, unbreakable locking mechanism.

A protective vinyl coating will protect the bike lock from rain and other elements in the weather/outdoor environment. A high-security disc cylinder doesn’t move and can’t be distorted without the proper key system. A patented, hardened-steel sleeve ensures the bike is securely locked into place on any bike rack.
Top Three Competitors of Kryptonite Bike Locks

There are hundreds of products available when it comes to choosing a new bike lock. With this being said, Kryptonite has several competitors in the industry. These are a few of the top-rated options to consider, when comparing the New York bike lock, with other industry leaders.

To Sum it All Up

When it comes to protecting your bicycle, there’s no shortage of options available to you as a bike owner. It is, therefore, important to compare several locking systems, brands, and locking systems, to find the one best suited to protect your bike from theft, no matter where you park it during the daytime and evening hours.
As a bike owner, you want to know your bike is protected by the most rugged, well-made bike locks. And, it doesn’t hurt to know the lock is backed by 100 percent guarantees, money back guarantees, and full cost replacement guarantees, in the event your bike is stolen. These are just a few of the benefits you’ll receive with Kryptonite bike locks.

No matter what your bike’s value is, you want to know it is protected at all times of the day. When considering a new locking system, you have several products available to choose from. When the time comes to decide on your new bike lock, the Kryptonite New York lock is one of the leaders in the industry, and with the APTO guarantee, you can be rest assured your bike is secure, regardless of how dangerous the locality where you park your bike may be.